Solutions for better sleep

Do you wake up feeling like you have not slept yet?Sleep apnea is a sleeping disorder characterized by a complete or partial interruption in breathing during sleep. Sleep apnea may be caused by a lack of respiratory strength; however, it is more commonly caused by obstruction of the throat by the soft tissue (Obstructive Sleep Apnea). This obstruction narrows the space available for the air to flow resulting in a turbulent sound of air referred to as snoring. Snoring by itself is not an indicator for sleep apnea; however, in combination with other symptoms it is a good predictor.

Researchers at Mayo Clinic have discovered that patients with obstructive sleep apnea have an increased risk of having a heart attack between the typical sleeping hours of 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. —American College of Cardiology

Consult with your physician to see if a sleep study is appropriate for you. A sleep study must be done for diagnosis. There are many treatment options from behavioral therapy (sleeping on one side) to surgery. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea; however, 60% of CPAP users do not wear their mask on a regular basis. If you can’t tolerate wearing the CPAP machine mask or need an easier travel solution, you can have a custom made oral appliance as an alternative. The appliance will protrude your jaw increasing the posterior airway space. It is made up of 2 separate pieces and worn like an orthodontic appliance during sleep. The oral appliance keeps the soft tissue from collapsing and interrupting normal breathing patterns. It also allows you to speak, yawn and does not limit tongue space.

“I have been using a snore guard made for me by Dina Giesler and her staff for over two years and have been extremely happy. I was diagnosed with sleep apnea and used the CPAP machine which was very uncomfortable and inconvenient. When Dr. Giesler suggested the sleeping appliance I decided I would give it a try and it has been wonderful. I sleep throughout the night and have experienced no discomfort.”

“I would highly recommend this product to anyone with snoring or sleep apnea issues and suggest that they have Dr. Giesler and her team fit them as they do a wonderful job.” –J. Belk

Atlanta Smiles and Wellness is a state-of-the-art dental facility equipped with digital x-rays, intra-oral cameras, diagnostic lasers and Zoom!™ - the latest tooth whitening technique. The office is located in the Post Riverside complex in Buckhead.